National parks preserve our culture, history, and most incredible landscapes. In trying times, the parks are even more important as they offer low cost escapes that re-enrich the American spirit.

Never before have park friends groups played a more important supporting role. The proliferation of these friends groups, and their now essential contributions, is a nationally significant but largely untold story. Until now.

In a special edition magazine—Essential Friends, Celebrating Friends Groups In The National Parks—we're telling the stories of these indispensable organizations to a global audience.

You'll encounter eight great national parks, from the Atlantic and the Appalachians to the Rockies, from Mexico to Canada. You'll also meet the people who passionately step up to help "their parks" on our behalf—and learn their insider tips for enjoying them.